Independent shops are urged to sign up to a shop indie Christmas campaign.

The Saffron Walden Reporter is delighted to sponsor Saffron Walden Town Team’s Independent Christmas Shopping Challenge and campaign, which is now in its third year.

So far, more than 25 shops in Saffron Walden have singed up to take part in the scheme that highlights the best the town can offer.

The challenge sees shoppers receive a map and leaflet when they shop in any of the stores taking part. Customer taking part need to spend £50 in total to be in with a chance to win hundreds of pounds of vouchers to spend in any of the shops.

Design Essentials owner Wendy Howell, who is organising the campaign with Jude Cox of Jacks Outdoor Wear, said: “To be entered in to win the main prize, shoppers have to spend £50 in the stores taking part. At each shop, customers will receive a sticker. Any amount can be spent in any of the shops, you can spend all £50 in one, then go to the others to collect your stickers or you can spend in each until you reach £50.”

The campaign is due to be launched on November 18 at the screening of a short film to promote Saffron Walden.

As well as the campaign, there will be a radio advert on Star Radio promoting the town, and its free parking after 3pm, which starts on November 7.

Hywel Barrett, Reporter Content Editor, said: “We take pride in the communities we serve and are privileged to be able to support this campaign.

“Many of us take for granted what we have on our doorsteps, but the shop local campaign will remind people about the great variety of shops we have in our town.

“We hope that there will be a number of competitions so keep your eyes peeled while reading the paper in the weeks before Christmas.”

INFORMATION: Shops looking to take part must register before Tuesday (October 27). Register by emailing wendy@designessentials.org.uk or jude@jacksandjills.co.uk.